Punjab issues over 300,000 e-challans in five days; collects Rs350 m in fines

LAHORE: Authorities in Punjab have stepped up enforcement against traffic violations, issuing nearly 332,000 e-challans over the past 120 hours and imposing fines totaling over Rs 350 million.

In Lahore alone, over 51,000 challans were issued, while the province saw a total of 19,000 cases registered during the same period.

According to DIG Traffic Waqas Nazir, no cases have been filed against underage drivers, though 279 cases have been registered against their parents. Nazir said that ensuring compliance with traffic laws remains a top priority, with instructions that e-challans should take precedence over filing court cases for violations.

PUNJAB INTENSIFIES PENALTIES

Earlier in November, Punjab introduced strict penalties for traffic violations under a new ordinance issued by the Law Department and approved by the Governor of Punjab. The ordinance aims to curb speeding, signal violations, overloading, and air pollution caused by vehicles.

Under the new rules, motorcycles exceeding speed limits will be fined Rs 2,000, while cars face fines of Rs 5,000. Violation of traffic signals will result in penalties of Rs 2,000 for motorcycles, Rs 3,000 for three-wheelers, and Rs 5,000 for cars. Vehicles with engine capacity over 2,000cc will incur fines of up to Rs 15,000 for signal violations.

The ordinance also addresses overloading: three-wheelers will be fined Rs 3,000, vehicles under 2,000cc Rs 5,000, over 2,000cc Rs 10,000, and trailers Rs 15,000.

Additionally, vehicles contributing to air pollution are targeted. Motorcycles releasing excessive smoke will be fined Rs 2,000, three-wheelers Rs 3,000, larger vehicles Rs 8,000, and public transport vehicles Rs 15,000.

Officials say the ordinance is part of a broader effort to improve road safety, reduce traffic-related accidents, and control environmental pollution. The government has urged all vehicle owners and drivers to comply with the rules to avoid penalties and contribute to safer, cleaner roads in Punjab.